Getting to the bottom of things

withdrawing to inspire

Most big decisions that we take in life are a long process of insights but some just become clear suddenly on a beach walk or whilst driving to the supermarket.

Last month we hosted a very wise, inquisitive young woman for an educational retreat. She wanted to experience our version of off-grid living where wellbeing at large, contributing to a life serving economy, implementing permaculture principles, developing life skills and learning is a daily and sometimes challenging blend. 

I am writing this in March 2022, a time in history which will have strengthened any vague ideas you had about the world. It will also have changed some preconceptions, expectations and ambitions.

I have always tried to stay rather objective and neutral in my writing but feel I can no longer keep that up. Although I feel a great love for people in general and compassion for those I don’t understand I have also come to realize that there is no point in keeping a mask on. There is so much in the world to worry about on all levels  and so little chance that we will be able to repair the damage that has been done and is being done.

With that understanding, how do we live our daily life and make the most of it for ourselves and those that we love?

In his book Confessions of a recovering environmentalist, Paul Kingsnorth talks about withdrawing. And although this may sound a little sad and depressing to some it was a ray of light for my insight. All we can control is creating a small and happy life together with our family where our personal sovereignty is at the heart of our daily decisions.

It turns out that by sharing our version of creating a life that gives us a feeling of meaning, we have inspired our guest to start moulding her own interpretation of this together with her partner. Who would have thought that by withdrawing, we can still contribute to the world beyond our Finca’s borders. And of course, YOU. You are reading this which brings me back to the nostalgic notion of how the internet was originally intended. Not to distract from distraction by distraction (TS Eliot)  systemically distorting the picture of the world we carry in our heads at all times with all the social media apps, but instead;

to inspire, connect and learn beyond geographical borders appreciating our universal needs and aspirations in spite of our differences. 

Reach out to us if you want to spend a week disconnecting to connect. Create a new picture, become part of another story. Going analogue with our Back to La Tierra library, getting your hands dirty and creating a plate of food from what you pick in our garden. Come back to what matters. 

We are here. See you soon.